Flatbush, New York, New York

Family and Flavor

Marie Zipprich December 16, 2016

I apologize for this long-winded note, but I think it is important to speak up about gentrification in Flatbush and what it would mean for the existing residents. It seems that sometimes real-estate decisions are made without regard to the actual people that reside in a location. I’m sure this would be denied, but this could also mean that real estate firm employees that don’t live in that area will not have to feel the issues and concerns of that particular community. I would hope that "our feelings" would be taken into consideration.

My fiancée and I moved to an apartment in Ditmas Park during a time when Manhattan rents were on the rise. We both work as freelancers and don't always have a steady cash flow, so we felt our only option was to move to a more accommodating neighborhood. We love the many beautiful churches and architecture, Brooklyn College and the protected historic district. We are saddened by the gentrification we have watched rapidly grow in Willimasburg, Bushwick, Crown Heights, etc. We love all our neighbors, but I want to call out our Haitian and Caribbean neighbors in particular as they seem to get singled out the most. They bring a unique warmth and flavor. In addition, there are a lot of good hard-working family people here with small children and it would be a shame to see them pushed out just because a real-estate firm has to make their sales quota or wants to adhere to the newest and trendiest fad in real-estate and/or business. (What we need here are schools and safe accessible parks so children have an outlet). We also live near a church that serves everyone: Haitain, Creole, Spanish, etc. so that would be disrupted by gentrification as well. I deeply hope that someone out there has a brain with morals and can recognize how detrimental gentrification would be here. Many residents will feel angry and our peaceful coexistence could potentially be destroyed.

Lastly, I will have you note that I worked for a large architectural firm for a few years and understand that the existing residents, housing, and businesses are all linked to a larger context. They make this location whole by connecting the community in diverse ways. To change those foundations would mean to literally change a community. Drastic gentrification which may include trendy businesses and real-estate changes would ruin a peaceful community. If changes must be made, I plead that the existing coexistence be protected.

Thank you for reading, I hope this touches people in a positive way.


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